How to Tighten the Chain on a Stihl Chainsaw

The chain on a Stihl chainsaw needs to flow smoothly around the guide bar. For this to happen, the chain needs proper tightening. Too little tension on the chain and it will come off. Too much tension on the chain and it will bind up, or worse, snap. Using a properly tightened chain will also help the operator to work quickly and cut wood more efficiently. Whenever tightening the chain, inspect the chain for damage.

Leather work gloves
Combination bar tool

Instructions

- 1
  Turn the Stihl's engine off. Pull backwards on the front handle to disengage the safety brake. Spin the chain with a gloved hand to ensure it is free of any obstructions.
- 2
  Loosen the two bar nuts using the wrench side of the combination bar tool until they are finger tight. Insert the screwdriver end into the bar tensioner screw, in between the two bar posts. Turn the screw clockwise to tighten the chain.
- 3
  Retighten the two bar nuts with the wrench. Pull the chain down and off the bar, on the underside of the chain, near the metal spikes, or dogs. Count the number of exposed drive links to ensure six to seven links can be seen.
- 4
  Loosen the bar nuts again and rotate the bar tensioner screw clockwise or counterclockwise to tighten or loosen the chain accordingly. Retighten the bar nuts and check the tension again. Repeat this procedure until the chain has the proper tension.

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